looking to get this project done before summer.

apparently, i need to get the upper ball joint socket. i see there is also a lower ball joint stud remover - is this necessary to have?

any other special tools needed to get this job done?

how bad is the job of removing and installing new control arm bushings? just using stock replacement rubber, not poly.

thanks

You do not have to have a ball joint stud remover unless you want to save the boots. A Pickle fork will work but the boots usually get torn.

The bushings can be removed with a hammer and chisel & or a small grinder.

To install the bushings you can us a press. For the uppers you can use a jack screw setup also.

That is what you can get away with but I suggest you get these tools.

This tool makes installing & Removing Upper Bushings easier and it can be used for U-joints also.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=38335

This tool is great for the removing the LCA bushing shells which is the biggest PITA of the whole process.
http://americanmuscle.carshopinc.com/product_info.php/products_id/89937/23501

The rest of the tools are just regular hand tools.

I do not recommend a particular manufacturer or reseller of those tools I just grabbed them from a google search.